Hundreds turn out to honour police hero Alan Bourke

COLLEAGUES, admirers and loved ones turned up in droves yesterday to farewell former Gympie police super intendent Alan Bourke who died on Monday.

More than 350 people saw a large contingent of Gympie and Sunshine Coast police form a guard of honour as Mr Bourke's coffin was carried into the Gympie Crematorium chapel.

His niece Brooke Kelly told of her uncle's good humour even in the face of death and how his passing this week was almost like keeping an appointment he made several years ago.

After "a major heart attack in 2006", someone had asked him if he had seen a white light.

He responded with an indication that it was not then his time.

"Well, I was going down the corridor and there was a sign on the door saying 'Back in 10 minutes,' so I had to turn around," he told his family.

Pall bearers carry Alan Bourke’s coffin on its last journey.

He had enjoyed a Christmas involving red wine and rock music, with family and friends.

Prominent Christmas memories were of listening to The Eagles and frequent Googling to find out who was the world's best drummer.

Ms Kelly said Mr Bourke's family had been deeply touched by the number of serving and retired police of all ranks who had contacted the family to offer their support.

"Legends never die," she said. "And we will all keep Alan's legend alive."

Retired Assistant Commissioner Graham Rynders recalled "a great friend and companion" who had won many awards and medals.

Retired Queensland Police Assistant Commissioner, Graham Rynders.

Another admirer who attended was a man described by police chaplain Bruce Dorman as "Alan's great friend", former police Commissioner Bob Atkinson, who also had worked with him. Rev Dorman said Mr Bourke had left "an indelible mark" and would always be remembered for his mischievous sense of humour.

"He had a strong dislike for people who chose a life of crime and was known for his tenacity and sheer doggedness," Rev Dorman said.

Alan Brian Bourke was born on August 4, 1952 and will be remembered for his pro-active policing and an associated drop in the number of serious crimes during his term of office.